Phase I: Philippians 4:4-7
Step #1
Living
in
Harmony
(Phil. 4:2) |
Good relationships are vital. We normally do not think relationships are so important–especially with some people. However, peace comes from love. The way we relate to man reflects a lot on how we relate with God. However, it is important to recognize that our peace of heart is not derived from these relationships.
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I urge Euodia and I urge Syntyche to live in harmony in the Lord (4:2).
• Two women perhaps had much to do with the origin of church; meeting places.
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Application
Peace can never be thought of as an individualistic possession. Our peace should never be thought of apart from our relationships with others.
What relationships does God want to work on with you right now? |
Step #2
Helping Godly Coworkers
(Phil.4:3)
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Give proper respect and assistance to those doing God's work. The leaders are to lead God's people into God's work, not to do it on their own.
We might have differences, but we are still expected to support God's work rather than to criticize it. |
Indeed, true comrade, I ask you also to help these women who have shared my struggle in the cause of the gospel, together with Clement also, and the rest of my fellow workers, whose names are in the book of life. (4:3) |
Application
How can we have peace when we are not actively participating in God's Gospel program? The Gospel was born to be shared with others. Fight apathy.
Write a list of leaders God expects you personally to support.
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Step #3
Rejoicing in the Lord Always
(Phil. 4:4) |
Our greatest joy is not in things or circumstances but in the grand person of Jesus Christ. By focusing on His eternal kingdom and holy values we see our greatest service to Him is to cherish and trust Him.
His children are not to focus on how they are treated but on how the Lord has loved them! |
Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice! (Philippians 4:4). |
Application
Come out from under the burdens of our wants and needs and focus on our Lord's grace. Be thankful and rejoice in Him.
Each time you feel critical of something going on, get by yourself and start rejoicing in the Lord till the feelings disappear.
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Step #4
Living Graciously
(Phil. 4:5)
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We normally equate peace with getting everything we want. But the Lord challenges our notion of 'our rights.' Instead of focusing on getting what we want, we need to focus on giving love and patience to the very people who threaten our chance of getting what we want.
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Let your forbearing spirit be known to all men. The Lord is near. (Philippians 4:5). |
Application
Do you focus on your demands or on being patient and kind with the disagreeable people around you? Can you trust God to take revenge? Pass on those you have difficulty with to the Lord. |
Step #5
Entrusting our Worries to The Lord
(Phil.4:6) |
We are first challenged to stop worrying and secondly charged to entrust these worries into God's gracious care.
Worrying is sin that has to be effectively dealt with. Then we can turn temptation into prayer!
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Be anxious for nothing, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. (Philippians 4:6). |
Application
Pick out one or two circumstances that you tend to worry about. Apply this verse now by (1) stop worry about it and (2) letting the Lord know about your needs and trusting Him to care for you. |
